MA in Islamic Studies - Course Content

Islamic Jurisprudence, Fiqh and Usul - Prof. Gamal Solaiman

This course, divided into two modules, provides a solid introduction to Fiqh and 'Usul al-Fiqh, with a comparative view of the various schools of Fiqh. The aim of the course is to enable the student to acquire a good knowledge of the nature of the Shari'a and Fiqh and to appreciate their central place in the life of Muslims.

Module I covers:

1. Introduction to Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence), including the definition of the discipline, outlining its content, methodology, and the sources of Shari'a and Fiqh.
2. 'Ibadat (worship), and Tahara (ritual purity), Salat (Prayer), Zakat, Sawm (Fasting), Hajj (pilgrimage).
3. Rules on food and dress (al-Ta'am and al-Libas).
4. Hunting and animal slaughter (al-Sayid and al-Dhaba'ih).
5. The Penal Code (al-Jinayat).

Module II covers:

1. Introduction to 'Usul al-Fiqh, including reference to the basic rules of Fiqh (al-Qua'id al-Fiqhiyya and the Maqasid).
2. The Laws of Transactions (al-Mu'amalat), including its application in contemporary Islamic banking.
3. Family Law (al-Nikah and al-Talaq). The Law of Succession (al-Mirath).
4. Qualification for Ijtihad.
5. Fiqh in the contemporary world.